Medical Surgical HESI 2023 Related

Review Medical Surgical HESI 2023 related questions and content

A client who was discharged 8 months ago with cirrhosis and ascites is admitted with anorexia and recent hemoptysis. The client is drowsy but responds to verbal stimuli. The nurse programs a blood pressure monitor to take readings every 15 minutes. Which assessment should the nurse implement first?

  • A. Evaluate distal capillary refill for delayed perfusion
  • B. Check the extremities for bruising and petechiae
  • C. Examine the peritibial regions for pitting edema
  • D. Palpate the abdomen for tenderness and rigidity
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In a client with a history of cirrhosis and ascites presenting with anorexia and recent hemoptysis, palpating the abdomen for tenderness and rigidity is crucial as it helps in identifying signs of complications related to these conditions. Assessing for abdominal tenderness and rigidity can provide valuable information about the presence of internal bleeding, ascites complications, or liver enlargement. Evaluating distal capillary refill, checking for bruising and petechiae, or examining peritibial regions for pitting edema are important assessments but are not the priority in this case, given the client's history and current symptoms.